2452m - Manager, Distribution System / DER Planning (Hybrid)

Builds a multi-faceted team to assess distribution system planning needs and DER interconnection requirements in the Companys Connecticut service area and develops plans and programs to expand the distribution system to accommodate current and future demand from load and DER growth. This is a key role in the Companys advanced system planning strategy to build a dedicated, responsive organization to support the scope of activities needed to meet state and customer expectations for load growth, electrification, clean energy, and resiliency in the 21st century. Location: Hartford CT, Manchester, NH, Westwood, MA or Berlin CT (Hybrid)

The Manager of Distribution System and DER Planning in Connecticut actively coordinates with DSP and DER managers in other states, as well as managers of Integrated Energy Planning, Advanced Forecasting and Modeling, and Transmission Planning. The position interacts with many departments e.g. Distribution Engineering, Substation Engineering, P&C, Asset Management, Grid Mod, IT, Siting and Permitting, and other stakeholders to develop and coordinate a long-term approach to planning and expanding the system and interconnecting DER while ensuring safe, reliable, and resilient operations.

The Manager will drive fundamental changes in how we study and assess future distribution needs, develop models, perform analyses and deploy solutions, and apply equipment and technology to ensure safe, reliable service for all our customers.

The role requires active leadership in ongoing regulatory proceedings to drive changes necessary for successful implementation of the Companys L-T strategy and to proactively develop infrastructure and NWA investments to enable seamless transition to a decarbonization future.

Responsibilities

• Takes ownership and responsibility of Distribution Planning activities throughout Connecticut, including planning for new bulk and non-bulk distribution substations, station upgrades for capacity or reliability needs, mobile transformer positions, critical distribution ties, DER system impact studies and NWA solutions, including battery storage.
• Develops and documents processes and standards for system modeling, planning and analysis working closely with System Planning Managers and other stakeholders
• Integrates cross functional groups or teams to initiate and implement projects. Works closely with internal and external stakeholders to address needs with appropriate solutions.
• Formulates company technical positions and recommends company policies and standards on various issues.
• Represents the company with federal, state, and local organizations and on various industry and professional society committees and working groups.
• Provides information and recommendations to senior management, including letters and reports in support of technical or policy positions on various aspects of distribution and DER planning.
• Authorizes contract work relating to the distribution forecasting and modeling
• Represents Director Distribution System Planning as appropriate.
• Oversees management and development of area staff providing technical guidance to less experienced personnel

Qualifications

• BSEE, required, an advanced Degree, MSEE or MBA, preferred; Licensed Professional Engineer, PE is a plus
• 10+ years of electric utility, technology, engineering experience, including significant Distribution Planning, Management, and Regulatory experience required
• Fundamental understanding of electric simulation software and power distribution system analysis, including steady-state and dynamic analysis, and 8760-hour simulation
• Demonstrated experience with developing distribution system plans and procedures for ensuring capacity, reliability, and power quality for customers
• Excellent understanding of DER interconnection study methodologies and applicable tools, models, and assumptions
• Demonstrated leadership in strategic planning with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Must be familiar with distribution system operations, distribution protection and control concepts and storm restoration procedures and their impact on reliability and resiliency
• Knowledge of accounting and engineering economics applicable to develop cost of projects and programs.
• Effective communicator who develops relationships, works cross-functionally and communicates persuasively
• Stay current with developments in the industry with the ability to transform insights from understanding the customer into business strategy, while fostering teamwork among various internal and external stakeholders to accomplish goals